Understanding the Signs: When to Seek Therapy for Anxiety or Depression
Most, if not all, of us find life overwhelming, difficult, or disconcerting at times. The question I am often asked is how can you tell when feelings of unease or sadness transition from “just a rough patch” to something more persistent or concerning, like anxiety or depression?
Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health concerns in Canada and can have a significant impact on a person’s sense of well-being, ability to engage fully in their lives, and even on one’s physical health. Today, we’re exploring the common symptoms of anxiety and depression, how they can disrupt your daily life, and why seeking professional help can make all the difference. Additionally, we’ll share how our tailored approach at Clearview Counselling can guide you toward healing.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression can manifest in ways that may surprise you—they’re not always as evident as we think. With anxiety, you might experience a racing heart, a persistent sense of worry that won’t subside, or difficulty sleeping because your mind simply won’t calm down. Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach tension, or feelings of restlessness can occur as well. Depression, on the other hand, might feel like a dense fog—characterized by low energy, disinterest in activities you once enjoyed, or a pervasive sadness that weighs you down. You might find it difficult to concentrate, notice changes in your appetite, or feel a sense of disconnection from those around you.
Symptoms of depression or anxiety can become concerning when they persist and when they begin to get in the way of your daily functioning. Often, symptoms build quietly over time until they’re hard to ignore. Everyone’s experience is unique, but it might be time to pause and reflect if these feelings sound familiar.
How They Impact Daily Life
Depression or anxiety is more than just a temporary sad or worried mood. When they take hold, they can ripple through every part of your day. Anxiety might leave you second-guessing decisions, avoiding social plans because the “what ifs” feel too big, struggling to focus at work because your thoughts are racing, or engaging in compulsive behaviours to try to increase your sense of control. Depression can sap your motivation, making even simple tasks—like getting out of bed or cooking dinner—feel monumental. Both depression and anxiety can begin to place a strain on your relationships as you pull back, lash out, or struggle to explain what’s going on for you.
If you have noticed that you are feeling stuck in a persistent mood that is having a negative impact on your life, it may be time to seek support from your family doctor and/or from a psychologist or mental health therapist.
The Benefits of Professional Help
You don’t have to face how you are feeling alone. Psychotherapy provides a safe space to explore what’s happening, gain clarity about your experience, and develop tools to feel like yourself again. Studies indicate that therapy can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve sleep, enhance self-esteem, and help you reconnect with what matters most to you. Therapy is not about “fixing” you or something else in your life—you’re not broken—it’s about empowering you to cope with difficulties and reconnect with your strengths.
At Clearview Counselling, we’ve seen firsthand how therapy can transform lives. Whether it’s learning to quiet anxious thoughts, practicing new strategies for self-soothing or changing something that has been contributing to how you feel, professional support provides a roadmap to healing that’s tailored just for you.
Our Approach: Therapy Modalities at Clearview Counselling
We’re proud to offer a range of evidence-based and evidence-informed therapy modalities to meet you where you are. Here’s how some of our approaches can help with anxiety and depression:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a popular approach to tackling negative thought patterns. In CBT, we work together to identify spiralling “what ifs” or self-critical loops and replace them with balanced, grounded perspectives. It’s practical and hands-on, and it has been proven to ease anxiety and depression.
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Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Sometimes, slowing down is the key. Mindfulness helps you stay present, reducing the overwhelm of anxious worries or the numbness of depression. We’ll guide you through techniques to calm your mind and reconnect with the moment.
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Person-centered Therapy: You’re at the heart of this process. This approach creates a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your feelings at your own pace. It’s perfect for rebuilding self-worth and sorting through complex emotions.
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Accelerated Resolution Therapy: ART uses eye movements and visualization to address distressing emotions linked to trauma or stress rapidly. It can be used as a stand-alone therapy or in conjunction with other types of therapy.
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Couples and Family Therapy: If anxiety or depression is straining your relationships, we can bring loved ones into the conversation. Together, we’ll strengthen communication and support systems to help you heal as a unit.
At Clearview Counselling, we use an integrative, client-informed approach to supporting you. That means you don’t need to know which kind of therapy you want to use to get maximum benefit. We will collaborate with you to customize a plan that fits your unique needs, preferences, and experience, blending techniques as needed to help you thrive. If you do have a preference for the type of therapy you want, we will match you with a therapist with training and experience in that area.
Why Choose Clearview Counselling?
Why trust Clearview with your journey? We’re more than just a counselling service—we’re a dedicated team of psychologists committed to walking alongside you with compassion and expertise. Our skilled therapists bring years of experience, a deep commitment to your well-being, and a collaborative spirit that makes every session feel like a partnership. We offer both in-person and online sessions, ensuring you receive support in the way that works best for you, whether you’re at home or on the go.
At Clearview, we believe everyone deserves hope and healing, no matter what they’re facing. We specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families overcome anxiety, depression, and life’s toughest challenges. Our goal? To help you see a clearer, brighter view of your future.
Take the Next Step
If anxiety or depression is casting a shadow over your days, you don’t have to wait for it to lift on its own. Recognizing the signs is brave, and reaching out is powerful. We’re here to help you take that next step toward feeling better. Contact Clearview Counselling today to schedule a session—whether in-person or online—and let’s start building a path to peace together. You’ve got this, and we’ve got your back.
